Sometimes, you just gotta...

...sit in the hammock.  And read a magazine.  Or get your ear scratched.

Hoop houses

We decided to experiment with a new method of growing a few warm-weather crops before the "proper" time - we hate waiting until after Memorial Day to plant, especially living in an area with a limited growing season.  After a trip to the nursery, we stopped by Home Depot to pick up supplies for three small-scale hoop houses.

A few feet of PVC pipe, zip ties, & barrier plastic (we chose one commonly used as a drop cloth that will last one season but it's possible to find more sturdy plastic).

 The bottoms easily detach from the sides, allowing us to break them down for winter storage.

I look angry because
1) My beer is empty
2) It appears I have a mustache

I look happier because
1) Steve is bringing me a refill
2) My mustache was just a shadow

Our new 'mater & pepper plants have taken swimmingly well to the hoop houses.  By day they soak up fresh air & sunlight, by night they turn into a warm greenhouse with the heat of the day trapped in the hoop house.  We cover the plants if it appears temps will dip below 40, otherwise they stay uncovered.  We'll report back at the end of summer if the new experiment worked...

My precious...

I have a strong penchant for peanut butter.  And other peanut butter-like condiments.  Such as Nutella.  When I saw this beautiful item in the grocery store, I couldn't resist: 

If you've never tried Biscoff cookies, you're missing out.  But the Biscoff spread...oh my...excuse me while I go grab another spoonful...

A day in the life of (spoiled) pups

"LOOOOOOOK!  DAD GOT HOME FROM HIS RUN!  I'M SO EXCIIIIIIITED!"

 Back-scratching roll in the grass

Sometimes rhino friends need a ride
(Or what used to be a rhino.  Guinness pulled the horn off the front of rhino's face)

Who needs two beds when you can squeeze onto one?  (Guinness looks like he's possibly being choked)

Pretending to be Jane Fonda

When it's nasty out & I don't have a run on the schedule & I don't feel like going to the gym, I'm not opposed to a good workout DVD.  I learned well from my mama - I remember trying to bust some Jane Fonda moves with her when I was little & she was getting her workout in while trying to take care of two active kiddos.  These two, however...

...think it's Wrestle-Mania time when mom clears the floor:

I eventually yelled at them to get out & they proceeded to pout.  Mom is no fun.